With less than two weeks to go from the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Defensive back Denzel Ward was cleared to return to practice from the NFL concussion protocol. Ward suffered his 5th concussion of his career in practice when tackling wide receiver Elijah Moore. Ward said despite the number of concussions he has suffered; he plans on continuing his playing career with the Cleveland Browns.

With the sheer number of concussions that Ward has had, fans and observers have expressed concern about his overall health. And they are also concerned about his quality of life after football.  Ward does understand the consequences of his decision. Please keep in mind that after every concussion Ward suffered, he did not return to play until he cleared the NFL concussion protocol by an independent neurologist. One would also think that he has access to the best care and advice on whether to continue playing or not. Much of this also depends on the severity of the concussions as well.

Ward was a 5th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns and since his arrival, he has been a cornerstone of the Cleveland Browns defense. His physical and aggressive play style could make him more susceptible to future concussions. I would not expect Ward to change his style of play anytime soon. And even though Ward is on the practice field for the Browns. He has been fully cleared from the concussion protocol. An issue like this last year happened with Ward clearing the concussion protocol right before the 2023 season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. I did expect him to do the same this year for the season opener against Dallas.

Everyone understands that Denzel Ward is a grown man and can make his own decisions. He is also a human being that will have a life after football. With the best medical care and advice available to him, let’s hope he makes the right decision at the right time!